Happiness for Beginners

After her life falls apart, newly divorced 32-year-old Helen Carpenter just can’t seem to bounce back. When her brother Duncan convinces her to join a wilderness-survival course in Wyoming, Helen jumps at the chance to experience something new. The trip at first seems like a disaster. From a surprise blizzard to rutting elks, Helen is in over her head. Then she’s completely taken aback when her brother’s decade-younger, and slightly annoying friend Jake kisses her. Though the journey frequently pushes Helen to the limit, it is also transformative; along the way, she learns to be brave, vulnerable, and, above all, happy. Center (Things You Save in a Fire) has written an enchanting novel (adapted for Netflix last summer) about finding oneself in the most unexpected places. The audiobook is narrated by Ellie Kemper, who also played Helen onscreen. Kemper exudes the heartbreak and hope of a woman trying to find her way. She deftly balances heavier moments with levity and offers an entirely believable portrait of Helen.